Survey Launch: Local Government Rules Affecting Disability Welfare Services

As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance support for individuals with disabilities, Papageno Co., Ltd., based in Suginami, Tokyo, is set to commence a significant survey on December 20, 2025. This survey aims to gather perceptions and experiences regarding specific local government regulations that impact the access and quality of disability welfare services.

Background of the Survey

Local government rules often dictate the operation of disability welfare services, sometimes diverging from national regulations. While some of these rules aim to address localized needs, others present challenges that hinder individuals with disabilities from receiving the necessary support. Our survey intends to highlight these challenges by collecting firsthand accounts from those affected.

For instance, in Suginami Ward, there are several local rules that create disparities in service accessibility:

1. Transportation Allowance Restrictions: In Suginami, individuals accessing employment support services run by social welfare corporations or NPOs receive transportation allowances. However, those attending services managed by private companies are left without this support. This inconsistency can lead to financial distress, as individuals may find it difficult to afford transportation to these essential services.
- Proposed Solutions:
- Eliminate differences based on the type of operating entity.
- Allow service providers to offer transportation allowances when the municipality does not.

2. Ban on Electronic Signatures: The current regulations prohibit individuals with disabilities from using electronic signatures for welfare service contracts and documents. This requirement for handwritten signatures prevents the adoption of digital solutions, lagging the digital transformation in service accessibility. As electronic documentation becomes more prevalent globally, this restriction not only complicates processes but also seems discriminatory against individuals with disabilities.
- Proposed Solutions:
- Modify the blanket ban on electronic signatures to allow optional use, providing accommodations for individuals who may find electronic signing challenging due to their disabilities.

Through this survey, we aim to collect the voices of individuals with disabilities to facilitate policy recommendations to local governments and the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly. We recognize the importance of collaboration between stakeholders to create a more inclusive environment for all individuals.

Survey Overview

- Title: Survey on Local Government Rules Affecting Disability Welfare Services
- Target Audience: Individuals utilizing disability welfare services (residents outside Suginami are encouraged to participate as well).
- Survey Period: From December 20, 2025, to January 31, 2026.
- Time Required: Approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Purpose: To provide evidence-based recommendations to Suginami Ward, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
- Results Publication: Findings will be published on the Papageno AI Welfare Research Institute website, anonymized to protect individual identities.

Click here to complete the survey!

Statement from Papageno’s Representative

As the representative of Papageno, I want to emphasize that this survey is not intended to criticize specific local governments but to present constructive feedback based on the lived experiences of individuals with disabilities. We hope this will be a starting point for discussions with government bodies to improve the welfare system collaboratively. The unique aspects of local rules can indeed reflect community needs. However, we must also embrace digital advancements to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access the support they need effectively. Your participation is invaluable in shaping a more inclusive future.

About Papageno
Papageno Co., Ltd. is dedicated to creating a society where everyone can genuinely feel that life is worth living. We operate the employment support service “Papageno Work & Recovery,” aiming to foster recovery and inclusion for individuals with mental and developmental disabilities. We also focus on promoting digital transformation in the welfare sector through the development of our